Page "Fatah" Paragraph 5

There have been no open splits within the older generation of Fatah politicians since the 1980s, though there is occasional friction between members of the top leadership.

One founding member, Faruq al-Qaddumi ( Abu Lutf ), continues to openly oppose the post-Oslo arrangements and has intensified his campaign for a more hardline position from exile in Tunis.

Since Arafat's death, he is formally head of Fatah's political bureau and chairman, but his actual political following within Fatah appears limited.

He has at times openly challenged the legitimacy of Abbas and harshly criticized both him and Mohammed Dahlan, but despite threats to splinter the movement, he remains in his position, and his challenges have so far been fruitless.

Another influential veteran, Hani al-Hassan, has also openly criticized the present leadership.